Heat pumps are still relatively new in homes and gardens; by 2023, only 1% of homes had them. Many people wonder what heat pumps look like, how they sound, their size, whether they keep homes warm in winter, and whether they really save money on energy bills.
Heat pumps in older homes
The government offers a £7,500 grant when you replace a gas boiler with a heat pump.
The first step is to have a survey. Companies such as British Gas, EDF, and Octopus Energy can do this, and it is a good idea to get several quotes. The survey will tell you what size heat pump you need and whether your radiators need changing. Common problems include the need to change electricity meters, unexpected costs for parts such as water pipe connectors, and trying to find the right place for the hot water cylinder. A heat pump can be installed in an old house, but it can be difficult.
Size and noise
Heat pumps are not noisy; in fact, you can hardly hear them inside the house. Outside, they make a soft whirring sound like a fridge or boiler. They are bigger than most people expect, with a typical heat pump being about 1.4 meters long, 46cm deep, and 87 cm tall. They need space all around them for air to flow properly, so they can look quite big in a garden.
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Choose the right energy deal
Most energy companies have special deals for heat pump owners, with these deals having different prices for electricity depending on the time of day. The heat pump can run during cheaper times, and your home stays warm all day. You can also use your washing machine and dishwasher during these cheaper periods; for example, some companies have cheaper rates between 11am and 4pm, while others have different cheap periods.
You can pick any energy company for your heat pump deal, even if another company installed your heat pump.